Why do we raise our hand when we recite ‘Panatang Makabayan?’

Why do we raise our hands when “Panatang Makabayan” is being recited?

According to Kuya Kim’s report on “24 Oras” on Friday, this is a form of keeping one’s union.

“Tinataas natin yung ating kanang kamay as a gesture that we keep our alliance. Yung kanan kasi, political symbol for right leaning. Ito yung tama at sumusuporta ka sa gobyerno,” said anthropologist and Prof. Chester Cabalza, Phd.

The “Panatang Makabayan” is one of two national oaths. The other is a promise to the Philippine flag.

DepEd recently amended the “Panatang Makabayan,” changing the terminology “nagdarasal” to “nananalangin.”—Franchesca Viernes/LDF, GMA Integrated News